Archie Tamplin praised by boss Harry Wheeler after making Billericay Town debut in late win over St Albans City

Billericay, who will travel to Hemel Hempstead Town on Monday, were able to triumph thanks to Jake Robinson’s brace and an own goal from Dave Diedhiou.

And Wheeler, who had owner and assistant manager Glenn Tamplin alongside him in the dugout for the first time this term, was pleased to hand the teenager his first competitive appearance as the midfielder came off the bench.

“Archie did really well and he is not in the squad because of who his dad is,” said the Billericay boss.

“He has earned the right, worked hard in pre-season and done better in each training session we have had.

“We had a double session during the week, so we got to look at him properly.

“We decided that he deserved the chance at the right time and I thought he was excellent.”

Robinson put Town in the driving seat with a seventh minute effort, but St Albans hit back as Rhys Murrell-Williamson tapped home on the half hour mark.

However, Billericay restored their one-goal advantage four minutes later as Ben Nunn’s cross was turned into the back of his own net by Diedhiou.

St Albans levelled matters once again within two minutes as Guiseppe Iaciofano added his name to the scoresheet.

It looked as though it would finish honours even but Robinson, who has already scored injury time winners against Eastbourne Borough and Welling United this term, chipped over Dean Snedker with just three minutes remaining to hand Billericay all three points.

And Wheeler feels it is key to have Robinson and strike partner Moses Emmanuel playing a crucial role when it matters most.

“Jake and Mo always affect the game,” added Wheeler.

“Mo worked really hard and so did Jake.

“Jake’s finish was excellent and, with them, we always have the chance to get a goal.”

The clash also saw Sam Deering make his long-awaited return from injury.

Deering came on as a half-time substitute and Wheeler was impressed with the creative midfielder.

“We’re delighted with the three points but that, along with Sam Deering, was the only positive,” admitted Wheeler.

“Sam was excellent and he is naturally a good footballer. It’s good to have him back.”

Jack Paxman could return from injury when Billericay visit Hemel Hempstead Town on Monday.